Camping World RV Sales – Fountain, CO Exposed: Hidden Fees, Defect-Riddled Deliveries & Long Repairs
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Camping World RV Sales – Fountain, CO
Location: 6830 Bandley Dr, Fountain, CO 80817
Contact Info:
• customerservice@campingworld.com
• servicecenters@campingworld.com
• Sales: (855) 546-1778
• Main: (719) 382-1184
Official Report ID: 2105
Introduction: What Public Records Say About Camping World RV Sales — Fountain, CO
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Camping World RV Sales is part of Camping World Holdings, a large, national RV dealership chain with locations across the United States. This report focuses specifically on the Fountain, Colorado store serving the Colorado Springs–Pueblo corridor. The dealership’s recent online footprint reflects a mix of experiences; however, a substantial portion of recent 1- and 2‑star public reviews surface patterns that prospective buyers should examine closely before signing any paperwork.
To independently verify the sentiments summarized here, we strongly recommend you read the lowest-rated public feedback posted by consumers on the dealership’s Google Business Profile. Use the “Sort by Lowest Rating” function to see the most serious and recent complaints. Here is the direct listing: Camping World RV Sales — Fountain, CO Google Business Profile.
Before getting into the findings, join brand-specific owner communities to hear unfiltered, real-world experiences. Search for relevant Facebook owner groups by RV model or brand you’re considering: Search: Grand Design Facebook Groups or substitute your brand name. Join multiple groups to compare notes. Also consider YouTube reviewers who investigate dealership practices; for example, the channel Liz Amazing often examines systemic issues in RV buying and service—search her channel for the specific dealership you’re considering.
If you’ve purchased from this location, how did it go? Add your story in the comments.
High-Priority Consumer Advice: Independent Pre‑Purchase Inspections
(Serious Concern)
Across public complaints about this store and sister locations, a defining theme is customers discovering significant defects after taking delivery—followed by long waits for repairs. Your best protection is an independent, third‑party RV inspection before you sign. Do not rely solely on a dealer-provided “PDI” checklist. Hire a certified mobile RV inspector to do a thorough top-to-bottom evaluation—roof, seals, slide mechanisms, electrical, plumbing, propane, frame, axles, and appliances—before you finalize paperwork or hand over funds. Use this search to find local options: RV Inspectors near me.
Why it matters: once the money clears and you take possession, your leverage falls dramatically. Multiple consumers report cancelled trips and months-long delays as their new or “reconditioned” RV sits at the dealership waiting on diagnostics, parts, or manufacturer approvals. If the dealership refuses to allow a third‑party inspection on the lot, that’s a major red flag—walk away.
Curious if other shoppers had inspection-related issues? Tell us what you encountered with inspections.
What Consumers Report at Camping World RV Sales — Fountain, CO
Sales Practices, Pricing Promises, and “Gotcha” Fees
(Serious Concern)
Recent low-star public reviews describe discrepancies between advertised deals and final numbers in the finance office. Shoppers allege add-on fees and unexpected services were included late in the process, even after pricing was verbally agreed on. Complaints also mention unit availability (advertised inventory later reported “sold” or “unavailable”) and pressure tactics to place deposits quickly. While some buyers do report smooth transactions, enough negative experiences are publicly documented to warrant caution.
- Actionable protection: request a buyer’s order with every fee itemized before you visit the store; refuse vague line items like “prep,” “reconditioning,” or “mandatory protection packages” unless they are disclosed, optional, and priced transparently.
- Get it in writing: insist that any verbal promises (new batteries, full propane, hitch work, detail, parts to be replaced, we‑owe items) appear on the signed purchase agreement.
- Verify stock: ask for timestamped photos or video of the actual VIN you’re purchasing before traveling; don’t accept last‑minute “switches.”
Financing and Add‑On Products (Warranties, Protection Plans)
(Serious Concern)
Multiple public complaints for this location and the brand broadly point to high interest offers, strong pushes for extended service contracts, GAP, paint/fabric protection, and tire-and-wheel packages. Some reviewers say they later discovered these add-ons were pre-checked or not clearly explained. Others allege they were told warranties were “required to get the low rate,” a practice that can be deceptive if not true. It’s also common for consumers to report difficulty using these plans later due to exclusions or third-party approval delays.
- Shop financing first: arrive with pre-approval from your bank or credit union to benchmark rate and terms.
- Decline what you don’t want: every add-on is optional. If the payment only “works” with add-ons, that’s a warning sign.
- Read exclusions: extended warranties frequently exclude seals, caulking, wear items, and “pre-existing” conditions—common sources of claims denials.
- For a deeper look into RV industry sales and warranty pitfalls, review independent commentary like Liz Amazing’s RV buyer beware videos.
Low-Ball Trade‑Ins and Appraisal Disputes
(Moderate Concern)
Consumers posting low-star feedback often claim the trade appraisal dropped at the last minute or changed after an initial verbal estimate. Some allege their trade-in evaluation didn’t reflect recent upgrades or maintenance. While trade values vary with market demand and condition, patterns of last-minute valuation changes are worth noting.
- Bring comps: print recent private-party and dealer comps on your make/model, and present maintenance records, tire dates, and upgrades to support your value.
- Separate the deals: negotiate your new RV price and trade value independently to maintain clarity.
Titles, Paperwork Delays, and “We‑Owe” Items
(Serious Concern)
Several recent low-star reviews for this store describe delays in receiving titles, registration documents, or promised items (keys, remotes, parts, missing components). Paperwork delays can cause legal and logistical problems, especially for out-of-state buyers or those needing to secure storage or insurance in a specific timeframe.
- Document everything: ensure your we‑owe form lists exact items, deadlines, and who pays shipping/installation.
- Set a timeline: ask when the title will be mailed and request a tracking number. If you face unreasonable delays, document contacts and escalate to the store’s general manager and Camping World corporate support.
Unit Condition at Delivery and PDI Quality
(Serious Concern)
Complaints commonly cite delivery-day defects: water leaks, non-functioning appliances or slides, poor sealant work, delamination, and missing parts. Some buyers report that a “PDI” was performed but critical issues remained. Others allege units sat on the lot with weather exposure, leading to roof or seal degradation before purchase.
- Demand a live walkthrough: operate every system yourself before signing—slides, awning, HVAC, water pump, water heater (electric and propane), fridge, appliances, GFCIs, leveling, generator (if applicable), hitch components.
- Bring a moisture meter: check around windows, roof penetrations, slide corners, and under sinks. Water intrusion is a top cause of costly repairs and denied warranty claims.
- Third-party inspection: again, schedule an independent inspector before you buy: Find a certified RV inspector. If the dealership refuses this, consider walking.
Service Department Delays and Warranty Friction
(Serious Concern)
Low-star reviews for the Fountain, CO location frequently mention long repair timelines, difficulty securing status updates, and parts on backorder. Some customers say their RVs sat at the service center for weeks or months awaiting diagnosis or manufacturer approvals, resulting in cancelled camping trips and lost deposits. Others report disputes over what is “covered” under manufacturer or extended warranties, which can be especially contentious with sealant leaks and water damage.
- Escalate early: if parts are on backorder, request the manufacturer case number and contact the brand directly for ETAs.
- Document condition: take photos and video at delivery and when dropping off for service. Keep a log of dates and conversations.
- Consider mobile techs: for out-of-warranty issues, a reputable mobile RV technician can sometimes resolve problems faster than dealer service queues.
- For broader context on service backlogs across the RV industry, see consumer investigations like those discussed on Liz Amazing’s channel.
Communication, Follow‑Up, and Accountability
(Moderate Concern)
Public complaints often highlight unreturned calls, changing points of contact, and a lack of proactive updates regarding parts and warranty status. While some buyers report responsive staff and resolution, enough feedback notes inconsistent communication that buyers should plan for increased diligence on their side.
- Set expectations: request weekly status updates by email, with a named service advisor accountable for your file.
- Escalation ladder: if your advisor is nonresponsive, escalate to the service manager, the store general manager, and then Camping World corporate support.
Safety and Product Impact Analysis
Reported Defects and Real‑World Risks
(Serious Concern)
Issues commonly described in low-star reviews—electrical faults, water intrusion, propane leaks, slide malfunctions, and brake/axle concerns—carry safety implications. For example:
- Electrical faults: can cause shorts, battery failures, or fire hazards. Miswired transfer switches or poor shore connections risk equipment damage and personal injury.
- Propane system leaks: pose immediate fire/explosion risk. Any smell of gas requires immediate shutdown, ventilation, and professional inspection.
- Water intrusion: compromises structural integrity, causes mold, and can void warranties. Even minor leaks can become major repairs if not addressed promptly.
- Slide and leveling issues: can injure occupants if mechanisms fail or move unexpectedly. Misaligned slides damage seals, accelerating water damage.
- Axle/brake problems: threaten towing safety, stopping distance, and tire wear. Improperly torqued lug nuts and bearing issues have caused dangerous roadside failures across many brands.
Always cross-check your specific VIN and brand for open recalls using the NHTSA database and manufacturer sites. Use this link as a starting point and then refine by RV brand and VIN: NHTSA recalls database (search by VIN/brand). Delayed or ignored recalls can raise both safety and legal issues if incidents occur after documented notices.
Have you encountered a safety-related defect after buying here? Report your safety concern so other shoppers can see patterns.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Consumer Protections Potentially Implicated by Complaints
(Moderate Concern)
Allegations in public reviews—such as deceptive pricing, non-disclosure of add-ons, or misrepresentation of condition—can implicate consumer protection laws. Key frameworks include:
- FTC Act (15 U.S.C. § 45): prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices in commerce. Deceptive omissions or false claims about required add-ons could fall under this standard. See the FTC’s guidance: Federal Trade Commission.
- Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act: governs consumer product warranties. Dealers and warranty administrators must honor written warranties and avoid misleading terms or refusals inconsistent with the warranty document.
- Colorado Consumer Protection Act (CCPA): prohibits deceptive trade practices in Colorado. Buyers who suspect unfair practices can file a complaint with the Colorado Attorney General. See: Colorado Attorney General — Consumer Protection.
- Colorado Auto Industry Division (AID): oversees licensed motor vehicle dealers and can take complaints regarding dealer conduct, titling, and paperwork compliance. See: Colorado Auto Industry Division.
If you believe you were misled or your warranty rights were violated, organize documentation (ads/screenshots, buyer’s order, we‑owe sheet, emails, texts) and consider filing complaints with the FTC, Colorado AG, and the BBB. You may also consult a consumer-rights attorney familiar with RV transactions and arbitration clauses. Arbitration language in sales contracts can restrict court options; read all dispute resolution sections carefully before signing.
How to Protect Yourself at This Location
Pre‑Purchase Checklist
(Serious Concern)
Given the patterns in public complaints, proactive due diligence is essential:
- Third‑party inspection: Do not skip it. Hire an independent pro: RV Inspectors near me. Refusal by the dealer is a deal-breaker.
- Full systems test: water (city and pump), tanks, slides, HVAC, inverter, generator, leveling, lighting, awning, appliances, outlets and GFCIs, CO/LP/Smoke detectors (check dates), tire DOT codes.
- Paperwork precision: buyer’s order must list all fees, out-the-door price, and every promise. No blanks. No “TBD.”
- Financing clarity: bring an external pre-approval to compare. Decline unwanted add-ons. Verify that any add-on you keep is accurately priced and optional.
- We‑owe specifics: exact parts, timelines, shipping responsibility, and installation commitments, all in writing.
- Delivery day re-check: if any system fails during your final walkthrough, pause the deal until it’s corrected. Don’t accept “we’ll fix it after.”
Helpful consumer education on pitfalls can be found from independent voices exposing industry patterns, like Liz Amazing’s RV consumer awareness content. Search her channel for the dealership you’re researching.
Where to Verify and Research Further
Use the links below to examine independent feedback, videos, complaints, and forum discussions tied to Camping World RV Sales — Fountain, CO. Click each link and then refine results as needed. For forums without a prefilled search, use the site’s search box and enter the dealership name with “issues” or “problems.”
- YouTube search: Camping World RV Sales Fountain CO Issues
- Google search: Camping World RV Sales Fountain CO Problems
- BBB search: Camping World RV Sales Fountain CO
- Reddit r/RVLiving search
- Reddit r/GoRVing search
- Reddit r/rvs search
- PissedConsumer (manually search “Camping World RV Sales Fountain CO”)
- NHTSA Recalls search (then filter by RV brand/VIN)
- RVForums.com (use site search)
- RVForum.net (use site search)
- RVUSA Forum (use site search)
- RVInsider search: Camping World RV Sales Fountain CO Issues
- Good Sam Community search: Camping World RV Sales Fountain CO Issues
- Facebook brand groups via Google: Thor Motor Coach (replace with your RV brand)
Patterns in Public Complaints at the Fountain, CO Location
“New” Units with Immediate Problems
(Serious Concern)
Several consumers posting 1- and 2-star feedback report receiving brand-new towables or motorized units that exhibited leaks, electrical faults, or inoperable features on the very first trip. Others mention units leaving the lot without a complete functionality check, leading to roadside failures or cancelled vacations.
- Implication: poor PDI can mask factory defects, leaving buyers as unpaid QA. Even if a defect is a manufacturer issue, the dealership’s PDI is intended to catch egregious faults.
- What to do: insist on a multi-hour, hands-on systems demo, and do not finalize the deal if anything is unresolved.
Service Scheduling and Backlog
(Moderate Concern)
Another recurring theme: difficulty scheduling timely service, especially during peak season. Some buyers reported appointment slots weeks out and limited availability for follow-ups. Combined with parts delays, that compounds downtime dramatically.
- Tip: ask for realistic repair timelines up front, and query parts availability for known issues on your brand.
- Plan B: identify reputable mobile RV techs or alternative service centers in the region before you need them.
Communication Gaps
(Moderate Concern)
Low-star reviewers often point to service advisors or sales reps failing to return calls or provide updates. Communication gaps exacerbate frustrations when an RV is in for repairs during limited camping season windows.
- Best practice: request milestone updates in writing—diagnosis complete, parts ordered, ETA, work started, work complete.
- Escalation: if you’re not getting updates, copy the store manager and corporate support on emails to create accountability.
Add‑Ons and Warranty Confusion
(Moderate Concern)
Consumers often say they didn’t fully understand which defects would be covered under manufacturer vs. extended warranty, or that certain common RV problems (seals, caulk, water damage) were denied as maintenance items. This is not unique to this store, but it’s widely reported and financially impactful.
- Advice: treat seals and periodic re-caulking as your responsibility unless the written warranty states otherwise. Set aside a maintenance budget.
- Scrutinize contracts: read every add-on contract before signing and get clarifications in writing.
Acknowledging Positive Reports and Efforts to Improve
Not all experiences are negative. Some customers publicly report friendly salespeople, knowledgeable walkthroughs, and issues resolved under warranty. Where management intervenes early and sets expectations, outcomes can improve. If you had a positive or negative experience, your voice helps create a fuller picture for future shoppers. Contribute your balanced perspective.
What This Means for Your Budget and Timeline
Total Cost of Ownership Risks
(Serious Concern)
Unexpected defects, long service queues, and warranty exclusions can inflate the true cost of ownership substantially. Buyers have reported lost campground fees, towing expenses, weeks of missed trips, and out-of-pocket costs for items labeled “maintenance.” Financial protection at the outset—a careful inspection, realistic expectation setting, and a contingency fund—can protect you.
- Set aside 3–5% of purchase price for immediate post-delivery fixes and maintenance.
- Price shop insurance and ensure your policy covers towing and roadside assistance suitable for your RV class and weight.
- Scrutinize the final APR and term—long terms can hide high total interest costs, especially with add-ons rolled into financing.
Key Takeaways for Shoppers Considering Camping World RV Sales — Fountain, CO
Action Plan You Can Implement This Week
(Serious Concern)
1) Pre‑inspect before you sign, 2) Demand transparent, written pricing with no surprises, 3) Test every system at delivery, 4) Document everything, and 5) Prepare for longer-than-expected service timelines. These steps are your best defense against the patterns reported in public reviews of this location.
- Use the dealership’s Google listing to verify real-world experiences: Sort by Lowest Rating and read recent reviews.
- Search multiple independent platforms (YouTube, Reddit, forums) to triangulate patterns. Investigative and consumer advocacy content like Liz Amazing’s channel can help you spot dealership tactics and common RV defects before they become your problem.
- If you encounter resistance to an independent inspection or transparent pricing, walk away. There are other dealerships and private sellers in Colorado and beyond.
Do you agree or disagree with these takeaways based on your experience? Post your advice for other shoppers.
Final Summary and Recommendation
Based on patterns visible in recent public feedback for Camping World RV Sales — Fountain, CO, consumers frequently report concerns involving sales price transparency, add-on pressure in the finance office, unit condition at delivery, warranty coverage frustrations, and service delays. While some buyers do report positive outcomes and helpful staff, the consistency of negative themes indicates elevated risk, particularly for first-time RV shoppers who may not know what to check or how to push back on add-ons and ambiguous fees.
The safest path is to insist on an independent third‑party inspection before purchase, lock down a fully itemized out-the-door price, verify all verbal promises in writing, and prepare for service delays by lining up backup repair options. If the dealership declines to allow a pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified professional or cannot produce a clean, transparent buyer’s order free of mandatory add-ons, the risk to your wallet and vacation plans likely outweighs the convenience of buying here.
Given the volume and seriousness of public complaints specific to the Fountain, CO location—especially around delivery condition, pricing transparency, and post-sale service responsiveness—we do not recommend proceeding with this dealership without extraordinary precautions. Many shoppers may be better served by exploring alternative dealerships or reputable private sellers who permit third‑party inspections and provide clear, pressure-free pricing.
Have you bought from Camping World RV Sales in Fountain, CO? What was your outcome? Share details to help fellow RVers.
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